AN east Durham village is leading the way with the county's first purpose-built children's centre.

Work is under way on the complex, which will provide a range of key services for children under five and their families, in the grounds of the former Haswell Primary School.

Developed by SureStart County Durham, which is run by Durham County Council, the centre is expected to be complete by next summer.

While building work by Service Direct, the county council's construction arm, is carried out, three and four-year-olds can access nursery education in a specially fitted out-unit on the former school site.

"This is an important milestone, not just for Haswell but for the whole of County Durham,'' said Frank Firth, of Durham County Council.

"The children's centre will provide a single place for the key services of early years education, child care, health and family support.

"Parents will also be able to find help to identify training to meet their needs and support in finding employment.

"The centre will be come an important hub of support for parents.

"The great news for Haswell is that residents will be able to benefit from a purpose-built centre.''

A drop-in event is being held on Saturday, November 27, between 10am and 1pm, at Haswell Community Centre for people to find out more about the new centre and the services on offer.

Carol Lonsdale, from SureStart said: "The drop in is a chance for people to look at the plans and see what will be on offer and to give their views.

"Parents can find out about SureStart, child care, early years, midwifery and Mencap.

"They will also be able to visit the specially fitted temporary unit to see what is currently provided."